Kabras Sugar RFC II emerged top of the Western Conference standings following a commanding performance in the Eric Shirley Shield clash played at Mamboleo Stadium, Kisumu County, on Saturday.
With Menengai Oilers II having completed a league double over Kabras II last season, the Sugarmen named a strong and experienced side, clearly intent on settling scores. Kabras included seasoned campaigners such as George Nyambua, Hillary Odhiambo and Griffin Chao, all of whom missed out on the Kenya Cup matchday squad against Kisumu RFC. Oilers II were equally well-stocked, parading notable names including Samson Onsomu, Nelson Makokha and Charles Osgood.
Oilers struck first, executing a well-worked scrum move that saw centre Kevin Chebet dive over for a converted try. The early score allowed Oilers to frustrate Kabras’ initial attacking efforts before the Sugarmen finally broke the deadlock through Andrew Wangila, trimming the score to 7–5.
Kabras soon found their rhythm. A darting run from Patrick Kluivert sliced open the Oilers’ rushing defence, and the centre showed great composure to release Darrel Olouch, who finished off Kabras’ second try. Momentum firmly shifted in Kabras’ favour, and Adrian Kwesa then rounded his markers to extend the lead to 15–7 heading into the break.
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The Sugarmen came out firing in the second half. Mike Lukusi followed through his kick ahead and grounded the ball to stretch the lead to 20–7. Kwesa later completed his brace with a clinical finish as Kabras tightened their grip on the contest. Oilers managed a response, but any hopes of a comeback were extinguished when substitute Otieno Chrispine crossed late to seal the result and confirm Kabras’ place at the top of the Western Conference.
Elsewhere in the Eric Shirley Shield, Kisumu RFC II claimed a 28–0 walkover win against Nakuru RFC II.
In the Eastern Conference, KCB Rugby II ran riot with a 71–10 victory over KU BlakBlad II. Kenya Harlequins II were equally impressive, dispatching Daystar Falcons II 45–12, while Strathmore Leos II edged Impala Rugby II 12–7 in a closely contested encounter.
Eric Shirley Shield results
Eastern Conference
KCB Rugby II 71–10 KU BlakBlad II
Impala Rugby II 07–12 Strathmore Leos II
Kenya Harlequins II 45–12 Daystar Falcons II
Western Conference
Kabras Sugar RFC II 30–14 Menengai Oilers II
Kisumu RFC II 28–0 Nakuru RFC II
